First Day on the Job: Do’s and Don’ts

As a job seeker your work isn’t over once you’ve accepted a job offer. Your first few days, and even months, can be crucial to determining if the job is right for you. Your new employer is also using this time to evaluate whether or not you’re right for them. It is essential for you to consider what to do, and what not to do, before you start your next job. Here are some ideas to keep in mind.

Do: Be ready to learn.

When you start a new job, don’t assume that you already know everything you need to know to perform the work required. You will want to learn more about the corporate culture and values, specific procedures they prefer to follow, and how your role fits into the bigger picture. Be open to anything they suggest and fit it in with your experience.

Don’t: Be late.

Do everything you can to prepare before you arrive to the job on the first day so you can avoid being late. If you’ve had a different sleep schedule than the job requires start readjusting your bed times and alarms as soon as possible. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready for work in the morning. Plan your commute so you can avoid any problems that may make you late.

Do: Build your network.

Once you’re one the job it is time to start making connections. Learn the names of everyone in your department. Start making connections with them. The more you know about them as people the better your working relationship will be. Don’t stop with your own department. Branch out and meet everyone you can. You never know how their job will affect yours and vice versa.

Don’t: Forget to research.

Before you start a job learn as much as you can about the facility, the people who work there, and their industry. The more you know when you arrive on your first day the easier it will be for them to train you with the processes and procedures they expect that you will follow.

Do: Dress to impress.

During the interview process you should take note of how others are dressed in the office. Once you receive a job offer find out the official dress code rules. Use this information to put together a work wardrobe that will be professional based on the requirements of the job. Casual doesn’t mean sloppy so regardless of the official dress code be sure your clothes are always clean, neat, and in good repair.

Don’t: Forget to take notes, listen, and ask questions

On your first days you should keep a notebook with you and always write down new instructions. This will give everyone a good impression of how you learn. But, not only should you take notes you should be sure to listen to instructions and ask questions to clarify anything you don’t understand. The more you know, the better prepared you will be.